Buy or rent a boat

Once you have secured a mooring in your preferred location, you’ll need to buy or rent a boat to live or work on.

A wide range of styles, sizes and prices of boats are available. The key thing to keep in mind is that your boat must be appropriate to the mooring you intend to use. Specific moorings will have a maximum size of boat that they can accommodate. Some moorings will also have restrictions on the style of boats that are allowed.

Your boat must also meet the quality criteria laid down by Scottish Canals and must also be kept in excellent order. These guidelines are your guarantee that the overall quality of your mooring will remain high.

Hints & Tips, FAQs and Standards guidelines are available to download in the Useful Information section on the right hand side of this page.

When it comes to actually buying or renting a boat, there are a number of options, including new-build or pre-owned. For example, you can rent or buy a boat:

Currently on the canal system.

Outwith the canal network.

From a marina or a manufacturer.

A range of marine finance and mortgages are available to help you buy the ‘boat of your dreams’.

Scottish Canals will be able to give you unbiased, professional advice on the various options available and on the issues you should keep in mind when making your decision on which boat to choose.

Take the Next StepTo find out more about Living on Water residential opportunities please phone 0845 202 727 or fill out our contact form.

Please note: if you are interested in Living on Water leisure or commercial opportunities please send an email to Scottish Canals at enquiries@scottishcanals.co.uk first to assess the suitability of your business and vessel.